Solitary Bees

[Dave Allen Barker Jr]

Folks noticed today many little mounds of small dirt balls with a hole in the middle, around the big oak tree out front on the SW corner of the school, and were wondering what they were and if they should be concerned.

My guess is that they're solitary bees.  Quick research suggests that they're quite docile (little to no threat of stings (males can't sting)) and great pollinators.  That's what I'm going to tell kids and parents unless someone speak up and tells me otherwise.  Here are some references:

• Solitary bees are harmless, necessary - Rett Davis - The Times News
• Ground Nesting Bees: Are they a threat to you-or your Lawn?
• How to Identify and Control Ground Bees
• NCSU: ENT/ort-100 BEES IN TURF